Khaani FF: Mera Dushman Mera Ishq chapter 13 page 7 (Urd/Eng) upd - Page 4

Tagging someone who might enjoy this story..

Feroze_addict... thought you might like an AU fanfic of Khaani and Mir Hadi.

Chapter 6: Mir Hadi strikes

Upon seeing Hadi, Khaani quickly got up from the ground and stepped back in shock. Slowly getting up, Hadi said,"Kya baat hai tum mujhe dekh kar itni shocked kyu ho? Yeh reaction to mera hona chahiye tha. Main kabse tumhe dhund raha hu aur tum mili bhi mujhe kaha? Election Commission ke office mein. Waise kissi cheez ko agar dil se chaho to puri kayanat usse tumse milane ki saazish karti hai yeh baat maine suna tha aaj yaqeen bhi ho gaya...tum jaanti nahi main tumse dobara milne ki kitni besabri se intezar kar raha tha tumhara ek karz hai mujh par usko utaarna-". "Khaani!",a voice called. Hadi turned. It was Sarim Khan coming through the corridor. Reaching them, he addressed Khaani, "Main kabse tumhara wait kar raha hu...". Khaani fumbled to say something when Hadi spoke up,"Excuse me?Aapne abhi apni missus ko kis naam se bulaya?Khaani, what a unique name.". Sarim chuckled and replied,"Yeh meri chhoti behen hai Sanam Khan hum sab isse pyar se Khaani bulate hai. Woh kya hai na meri behen ko gussa bohot jaldi aa jata hai..bilkul Pathano jaise iss liye Ma ne iska naam Khaani rakha hai.".

"Bilkul sahi naam rakha", Hadi muttered to himself. "Kya?", Sarim asked. Hadi shook his head and said,"Kuch nahi". Sarim's eyes fell on Hadi's neck. It had a bandage peeking out of the collar. "If you don't mind me asking, aapko yeh chot kaise lagi?", Sarim ask curiously. Hadi glanced at Khaani, who turned white dreading Hadi's answer. "Woh..main apni gun clean kar raha tha to galti se misfire ho gayi.", Hadi replied. His words surprised Khaani. "Oh", Sarim replied,"Lagta hai aapko shooting ka bohot shauk hai.". "Obviously", Hadi replied with pride,"Main ek Mir hu after all. Aap bhi to Khan hai gun se mohabbat aapke bhi khoon mein hogi.". Sarim said,"Not at all.Humare baaki family members ke paas gun hai. Lekin Khaani aur main US mein bade huye the. Humari maa ne hume inn sab cheezon se humesha door rakha hai... I don't think Khaani ne apne life mein kabhi gun pakri bhi hogi.". "I see", Hadi responded in mild wonder, his eyes meeting Khaani's, who sensed the underlying sarcasm in his tone. Khaani decided to take cut short the meeting. "Sarim hume late ho raha hai, chale?", she asked her brother. Sarim nodded. He shook hands with Hadi,"All the best", he said. Hadi replied,"Same to you...I will see you around. Bye Khaani.". Khaani simply nodded and hastily followed Sarim. Before turning to the exit, she turned paused and turned around, only to find Hadi staring at her from afar.

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~Two weeks later~

Carrying her bags, Khaani walked across the parking lot towards her car. After days of rallies, campaigning and meet and greet, Khaani finally got an 'off-day' which she spent shopping to her heart's content in the nearby mall. It was a day to relax and laze around. She was no longer worried about Mir Hadi. If he wanted to expose her in front of the press or her family he would have done it long back. But for some reason (maybe male ego) he is lying about his bullet wound, Khaani guessed he too does not want anyone to know about that night's incident.

Khaani sat in her car. She was about to start it when suddenly the door of the passenger seat opened. Mir Hadi sat in the car. "Hello, Khaani.", He greeted smiling at her. "Yeh kya badtameezi hai?Meri car mein kya kar rahe ho tum?!", Khaani demanded. He feigned shock and replied,"Badtameezi? Abhi to maine kuch kaha bhi nahi. Humari uss din ki baat adhoori reh gayi thi.". Khaani protested,"Mujhe tumhari koi baat nahi sunni. Meri car se niklo abhi!". Hadi said,"Yaar bohot hi ungrateful ho tum..uss din tumhare bhai ke saamne tumhara saach chhupaya aur tumne ek thanks bhi nahi bola mujhe. Waise hats off to you kya bewakoof banati ho logo ko. Raat ko chhoti dress aur heels pehenkar innocent logo pe goli chalati ho....aur din mein sati Savitri bankar Bhai ke peechhe sir hilati ho. Kya cheez ho yaar tum....I am impressed(giving a mock salute).". "Innocent? Aur tum?", Khaani fumed,"Agar Maine Sarim ko bata diya hota na uss tumne mujhpar banduk taani thi to woh wahi tumhe zinda gaar deta. Ab jaldi jaldi bolo tumhe kya chahiye isse pehle main tumhe phirse goli maar du. Aur iss baar seedha seene pe goli chalaungi.". Mir Hadi took out his phone and passed it to Khaani. Hadi smirked as Khaani's expression turned from frustration to horror. It was the CCTV footage from the night of the shooting. The footage showed Khaani taking a gun out of her car and firing at someone. Hadi was conveniently out of the frame. "Picture kaisi lagi?", Hadi asked as he took his phone out of Khaani's hands,"Mujhe to bohot pasand aayi. Tumhe lagta hai baaki awaam ko yeh movie achchi lagegi? Especially tumhare ghar walo ko?". Khaani didn't rise to his bait this time. After a moment's silence she said,"Tum mujhe blackmail karne aaye ho yaha?". Hadi clicked his tongue and said,"Sach mein bhalayi ka koi zamana nahi raha. Main iss waqt police station ho sakta tha tumhare khilaaf complaint file karne..abhi meri jagah police ho sakti thi tumhe hathkadi lagate huye...pure duniya ke saamne tumhare family ki izzat ki dhajiya udd sakti thi..lekin nahi!Maine aisa kuch nahi kiya...ulta main khud tumhare paas aaya hu saboot lekar. Kaha tumhe Mera ehsaan Maan na chahiye aur tum ho ke mujh par ilzaam laga rahi ho.". Khaani rolled her eyes. Just when she thought things were going well for her this man had to come and ruin everything. "Iss video ke badle kya keemat loge saaf saaf batao mere paas pura din nahi hai!",Khaani demanded again. Hadi replied "Agar tumhare jagah koi aur hota to ab tak main yeh video viral kar chuka hota. Lekin tum mujhe pasand ho. Iss liye main yeh video destroy kar dunga. Iske badle tumhe apne bhai ko bolna hai ke woh apna nomination wapas le le.". His words shocked Khaani. She glared at him. "Have you lost it?", She almost whispered,"Tumhe pata bhi hai tum kya keh rahe ho?". Hadi replied in a serious tone,"Tumhare paas next week tak ka time hai...yaa to Sarim nomination se apna naam hatayega ya to main tumhare shooting ki video ko public kar dunga....aur uske baad woh election bhi haarega aur apni izzat bhi. So isn't it better ke woh kahi aur se election lade at least uski izzat to rahegi.". Khaani said angrily,"Agar tumhe lagta hai ke main tumhare dhamki se darr jaungi to tum bilkul galat soch rahe ho! Aur tum yeh nahi samajna ke tumhare iss dhamki ke peechhe chhupe darr ko main dekh nahi paa rahi. Survey humne bhi karaya hai...Sarim ki popularity din ba din badhti ja rahi hai elections to wohi jeetaga tum chahe jitna haath paer maarlo!". Hadi replied coldly,"Hum Mir haath-paer nahi maarte...hum shikaar karte hai. Aur jab shikaar tum jaisi ho to uska mazaa hi kuch aur hai. Kismat achhi hai tumhari ke uss raat ke goli ka jawaab mein itne civilised way mein de raha hu...warna uss goli ke jawaab mein tumhe aur tumhare bhai ko kabka-". Hadi couldn't finish his sentence. Khaani angrily grabbed his collar with both hands. Her face was white with fury. Glaring at him she whispered with gritted teeth,"Tumhari dushmani mujse hai na? Usse mujh tak hi rakho. Agar mere bhai par tumne ek ungli bhi uthayi to main tumhara haath kaat dungi.". With his face inches apart from hers, Hadi stared at her eyes. They weren't desperate or scared but had a strange fire in them. Stunned, he quietly pried his fingers out of her collar and leaned back against his seat waiting for her to say something. Khaani did the same. She closed her eyes trying to rein in her anger. She needed to keep calm and think with her head. Antagonising him would only make matters worse for her. After a few moments, she said,"I am sorry...ainda aisa nahi hoga.". Hadi smirked. Her knuckles were tight from grabbing the steering wheel; her breathing harsh. She was struggling hard to keep her temper in check Hadi could clearly see it. Sorry?My foot! Tumhara bas chale to abhi mujhe Jaan se mardo, he thought to himself. He decided to add insult to injury."I am sorry?", Hadi asked pretending confusion,"Mujhe theek se sunayi nahi diya.". Khaani took a deep breath before saying aloud,"I am sorry abhi Jo hua uske liye aur uss raat maine jo kiya uske liye bhi...main Sarim se baat karungi.". Hadi smiled and said,"Mujhe pata tha ke tum jaisi samajdar ladki sahi decision legi.".

Waving goodbye, Hadi got out of her car. As Khaani watched him go, the wheels started turning in her head. There was no chance in hell that she was going to make Sarim withdraw his nominations. She dialled Ahmed's number. When he picked up, she said,"Ahmed? Mujhe Mir Hadi ki saari information chahiye...jald se jald. Putting on her Gucci shades, Khaani drove out of the parking lot, if Mir Hadi thought she was going to cower and do his bidding he was going to be sorely disappointed.

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As he was getting ready for bed, Hadi's eyes fell on the left side of his neck. There was an angry red scratch. When Khaani grabbed his collar, she had accidentally scratched him. Neither of them noticed it at the time. Mir Hadi, he thought running his finger along the mark, yeh ladki to tumhari jaan le kar hi maanegi. At twenty-six years with ruggedly handsome looks and cocky attitude that comes only with being the sole heir to one of the most prestigious political dynasties and feudal families in Pakistan, Mir Hadi was something of a national crush. Women found him irresistible and were ready to do his bidding at the flick of his fingers. And men knew better than to challenge his gunpower or political power. Mir Hadi was invincible. Or so he thought, until he was hit by Sanam Khan's bullet.

"Khaani", Hadi whispered to himself as he took the bullet she hit him with in his hands. It had found a permanent residence in his wallet just like its owner now constantly occupied his thoughts. It was rare for Hadi to have people stand up to him and here was a girl who gave as good as she got. Bringing her under his control was going to be fun. Although, he thought wistfully, it would have been even better if she hadn't been Sarim's sister. As a rule Hadi never got involved with women hailing from political and business families. It was simply a rule of not mixing business with pleasure. Things tended to get overcomplicated.

However, Khaani being Sarim's sister worked very well for Hadi. The CCTV footage would help him win the elections and teach Khaani a lesson. He'd be killing two birds with one stone. Sarim was a strong contender. He was charismatic, approachable and most importantly popular in the constituency because of his relief work. If Sarim was removed, the seat would virtually be Hadi's even before the election. So, why should Mir Hadi waste his time and money on the chance that he could win the election when Khaani was going to offer him the constituency on a platter?

Chapter 6: Mir Hadi strikes

Upon seeing Hadi, Khaani quickly got up from the ground and stepped back in shock. Slowly getting up, Hadi said,"What happened? Why do you look so shocked? That should have been my reaction. I was looking for you and of all the places I found you at the Election Commission's office? Wow! Law of attraction really works! I was hoping to see you again I owe you a debt-". "Khaani!",a voice called. Hadi turned. It was Sarim Khan coming through the corridor. Reaching them, he addressed Khaani, "I was waiting for you...". Khaani fumbled to say something when Hadi spoke up,"Excuse me?What did you just call your wife?Khaani, what a unique name.". Sarim chuckled and replied,"This is my younger sister Sanam Khan. She has such a short-temper just like a Pathan so we named her Khaani...".

"What a fitting name", Hadi muttered to himself. "Sorry?", Sarim asked. Hadi shook his head and said,"Nothing". Sarim's eyes fell on Hadi's neck. It had a bandage peeking out of the collar. "If you don't mind me asking, how did you get wounded?", Sarim ask curiously. Hadi glanced at Khaani, who turned white dreading Hadi's answer. "Mmm ..I was cleaning my gun and it got misfired.", Hadi replied. His words surprised Khaani. "Oh", Sarim replied,"You are into shooting.". "Obviously", Hadi replied with pride,"I am a Mir after all. You too must love your gun...being a Khan". Sarim said,"Not at all. Rest of our family members carry guns. But Khaani and I have been brought up in the US. Our mother has always discouraged us from carrying one... I don't think Khaani has ever held a gun in her life.". "I see", Hadi responded in mild wonder, his eyes meeting Khaani's, who sensed the underlying sarcasm in his tone. Khaani decided to take cut short the meeting. "Sarim we're getting late, can we go?", she asked her brother. Sarim nodded. He shook hands with Hadi,"All the best", he said. Hadi replied,"Same to you...I will see you around. Bye Khaani.". Khaani simply nodded and hastily followed Sarim. Before turning to the exit, she turned paused and turned around, only to find Hadi staring at her from afar.

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~Two weeks later~

Carrying her bags, Khaani walked across the parking lot towards her car. After days of rallies, campaigning and meet and greet, Khaani finally got an 'off-day' which she spent shopping to her heart's content in the nearby mall. It was a day to relax and laze around. She was no longer worried about Mir Hadi. If he wanted to expose her in front of the press or her family he would have done it long back. But for some reason (maybe male ego) he is lying about his bullet wound, Khaani guessed he too does not want anyone to know about that night's incident.

Khaani sat in her car. She was about to start it when suddenly the door of the passenger seat opened. Mir Hadi sat in the car. "Hello, Khaani.", He greeted smiling at her. "What the hell are you doing in my car?!", Khaani demanded. He feigned shock and replied,"How rude! Our little chat was interrupted the other day just came to complete that.". Khaani protested,"I don't want to hear a word from you. Get out of my car!". Hadi said,"You are so ungrateful. I didn't say a word to your brother about that night. Instead of thanking me you're showing me attitude. By the way hats off to you for conning people so brilliantly.At night, you shoot innocent people wearing dress and heels and during the day you're Ms. Prim and Proper obediently nodding behind darling brother. I am impressed(giving a mock salute).". "Innocent? You?", Khaani fumed,"Had I told my brother that you pointed a gun at me he would've buried you alive then and there. Now before I shoot you again, tell me what do you want?.". Mir Hadi took out his phone and passed it to Khaani. Hadi smirked as Khaani's expression turned from frustration to horror. It was the CCTV footage from the night of the shooting. The footage showed Khaani taking a gun out of her car and firing at someone. Hadi was conveniently out of the frame. "Like the film?", Hadi asked as he took his phone out of Khaani's hands,"I absolutely love it. Do you think the Pakistani audience will like it too? Especially your family?". Khaani didn't rise to his bait this time. After a moment's silence she said,"So you're here to blackmail me?". Hadi clicked his tongue and said,"With you it seems no good deed goes unpunished. I could have been in the police station right now filing an FIR against you. You could've been arrested and your family would have been humiliated. But instead, I chose to come to you with this evidence just because I like you. You should have been thanking me. Instead you're accusing me.". Khaani rolled her eyes. Just when she thought things were going well for her this man had to come and ruin everything. "I haven't got the entire day so tell me what do you want?!",Khaani demanded again. Hadi replied "I am going to destroy this video. In return I want you to ask Sarim to withdraw his nomination.". His words shocked Khaani. She glared at him. "Have you lost it?", She almost whispered,"Do you even know what you are talking about?". Hadi replied in a serious tone,"You have till next week either Sarim withdraws his nomination or I make this video viral. Once I do that, he'll lose both the election as well as his reputation. So my suggestion is ask him to withdraw from Sibi. If he contests from another constituency at least his reputation will remain intact."

Khaani responded angrily," If you think I am going to fall for your threat then you are wrong! I am not scared of you or your threats Mir Hadi. Don't, even for a minute, think that I can't see your insecurity underneath this fake threat. We did our ground survey...Sarim is much more popular candidate than you and he's going to win this election no matter how desperate you get!". Hadi replied coldly,"Us Mirs do not get desperate. We plan and hunt. And right now you are my prey. You should be thanking your stars that I am treating you in such a civilised manner. Otherwise, after the way you attacked me, you and your brother would have been-". Hadi couldn't finish his sentence. Khaani angrily grabbed his collar with both hands. Her face was white with fury. Glaring at him she whispered with gritted teeth,"You have a problem with me? Speak to me. But if you so much as lay a finger on my brother I am going to chop off your hand.". With his face inches apart from hers, Hadi stared at her eyes. They weren't desperate or scared but had a strange fire in them. Stunned, he quietly pried his fingers out of her collar and leaned back against his seat waiting for her to say something. Khaani did the same. She closed her eyes trying to rein in her anger. She needed to keep calm and think with her head. Antagonising him would only make matters worse for her. After a few moments, she said,"I am sorry...this won't happen again.". Hadi smirked. Her knuckles were tight from grabbing the steering wheel; her breathing harsh. She was struggling hard to keep her temper in check Hadi could clearly see it. Sorry?My foot! If you had your way I would've been dead by now, he thought to himself amused. He decided to add insult to injury."I am sorry?", Hadi asked pretending confusion,"I didn't hear you.". Khaani took a deep breath before saying aloud,"I am sorry about now...and the other night. I am going to talk to Sarim.". Hadi smiled and said,"You are a smart girl. I knew you would make the right decision.".

Waving goodbye, Hadi got out of her car. As Khaani watched him go, the wheels started turning in her head. There was no chance in hell that she was going to make Sarim withdraw his nominations. She dialled Ahmed's number. When he picked up, she said,"Ahmed? I need all information on Mir Hadi ASAP." Putting on her Gucci shades, Khaani drove out of the parking lot, if Mir Hadi thought she was going to cower and do his bidding he was going to be sorely disappointed.

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As he was getting ready for bed, Hadi's eyes fell on the left side of his neck. There was an angry red scratch. When Khaani grabbed his collar, she had accidentally scratched him. Neither of them noticed it at the time. Mir Hadi, he thought running his finger along the mark, this girl is going to be the death of you. At twenty-six years with ruggedly handsome looks and cocky attitude that comes only with being the sole heir to one of the most prestigious political dynasties and feudal families in Pakistan, Mir Hadi was something of a national crush. Women found him irresistible and were ready to do his bidding at the flick of his fingers. And men knew better than to challenge his gunpower or political power. Mir Hadi was invincible. Or so he thought, until he was hit by Sanam Khan's bullet.

"Khaani", Hadi whispered to himself as he took the bullet she hit him with in his hands. It had found a permanent residence in his wallet just like its owner now constantly occupied his thoughts. It was rare for Hadi to have people stand up to him and here was a girl who gave as good as she got. Bringing her under his control was going to be fun. Although, he thought wistfully, it would have been even better if she hadn't been Sarim's sister. As a rule Hadi never got involved with women hailing from political and business families. It was simply a rule of not mixing business with pleasure. Things tended to get overcomplicated.

However, Khaani being Sarim's sister worked very well for Hadi. The CCTV footage would help him win the elections and teach Khaani a lesson. He'd be killing two birds with one stone. Sarim was a strong contender. He was charismatic, approachable and most importantly popular in the constituency because of his relief work. If Sarim was removed, the seat would virtually be Hadi's even before the election. So, why should Mir Hadi waste his time and money on the chance that he could win the election when Khaani was going to offer him the constituency on a platter?

Ooooooh!!! That was gooood! Got to read two chapters in one evening so super happy now! I could really picturise these scenes of Khaani and Hadi in my mind's eye. Can't wait for more. Hadi thinks he has got her under his thumb at the moment. Look forward to whatever surprise Khaani will spring on him.

Originally posted by: twerping

Update soon!

I wish! I am on vacation. Hopefully you'll get a nice and looong chapter by 15th Dec

Smoke and mirrors part-1

Khaani frustratedly threw the file at the table. Ahmed had done as she asked. He got her all the information on Mir Hadi but there was nothing that could compel him to hand over the CCTV footage to her. All these files told her was that he was rich, spoilt and entitled. Your average Pakistani privileged man. Hardly something to blackmail someone over. Although there was one interesting detail: Hadi was something of a serial dater. He literally changed girlfriends the way people changed clothes. But his promiscuity will probably be treated in Pakistani media as a sign of his male hot-bloodedness, Khaani thought, rolling her eyes. He was currently dating a woman called Ayeza. Hadi was last seen with her at Ali's club two nights before he met Khaani.

Her phone buzzed. It was an unknown number. She answered. "Khaani...kaisi ho?", It was Mir Hadi's voice. "Tumhe mera number kaha se mila?", Khaani demanded. "Jab main tumhe mall mein track Kar sakta hu to tumhara number dhundna konsi badi baat hai. Batao...kaam hua mera?". Khaani replied,"Nahi...(sighing) mujhe waqt chahiye Sarim se baat karne ke liye. Tum bhi jaante ho yeh itna simple nahi hai.". Hadi replied sharply,"Itna mushkil bhi nahi hai tumhare liye. Usse baat Karo, samjhao...agar nahi maane to uss par goli chala lo.". Khaani ignored his jibe and replied,"Main Sarim se baat karlungi...abhi woh ghar pe nahi hai jab aayega main usse baat karungi...".

"Theek hai",Hadi said,"Magar zyada der nahi karna...warna aisa na ho ke main intezar karte karte thak jau aur video footage lekar seedha tumhare ghar pohoch jau.". Khaani replied,"Mere paas aur chhe din hai...tumne mujhe saat din ki mohlat di hai.". "Haan, di to hai", Hadi replied casually,"Magar mere mood ka koi bharosa nahi. Kya pata Maine achanak decide kar liya ke tumpe apna time barbaad karne se achcha main khud jaake Sarim ya tumhare Baba ko video footage dikhakar unse deal kar lu. So tumhare liye yahi achcha hoga ke tum time waste na karke kaam pe Lago ok?". Without waiting for any response Hadi cut the call.

Mir Hadi stretched on the sun bed next to his swimming pool. Sitting next to him was Ali, who noticed how his friend's mood had become visibly upbeat after talking to Khaani. "Hadi, mujhe abhi bhi samaj nahi aa rahi tu aisa kyu kar raha hai?", Ali asked curiously. "Kya kar raha hu?", Hadi asked. Ali replied,"Uss ladki ko blackmail karke apna time kyu waste kar raha hai...uss footage ko release karde... phir Sarim apne aap elections haar jaayega.". Hadi chuckled and replied,"Haa main aisa kar to sakta hu lekin uss mein koi maza nahi hoga...(looking at his phone) Iss ladki ki awaaz mein jo darr aur bebasi hai usse mujhe bohot sukoon milta hai...(laughing) ab yeh sukoon mujhe iske baap aur bhai se thodi milega.". "Agar woh apne bhai ko convince nahi kar paayi to phir tu kya karega?", Ali asked. Hadi shrugged and replied,"Video viral kar dunga aur kya karunga. Scenario chahe jo bhi ho, Mir Hadi ko yeh election jeetne se ab koi nahi rok sakta".

Just then Hadi's phone rang. Looking at the caller ID, he groaned and cut the call. It was Ayeza. "Yaar, yeh ladkiya itni desperate kyu hoti hai...matlab agar main last ek hafte se tumhara call ignore kar raha hu that means we are over! I am bored! Goodbye!". Ali chuckled and said,"Tu Ayeza ki baat kar raha hai na...ha usne mujhe bhi kaafi calls kiye puchh rahi thi ke tu kyu uska phone nahi utha raha...kab milega etc etc. Hadi tu kabhi apni girlfriends se clearly communicate kyu nahi karta ke you're breaking up with them?? Sab baad mein mujhe phone karke pareshaan karte hai.". "Haan to kya hua?", Hadi laughed and said,"Tu unhe mere se better handle karta hai(playfully punching Ali's arm). Bilkul unke bhai jaisa". "Ewwww!!", Ali said making a face before dissolving into laughter along with his friend.

Khaani stormed out of her room angrily recalling the conversation she had with Mir Hadi. Himmat kaise huyi uski mujhe iss tarah dhamki Dene ki! Samajhta kya hai woh apne aapko?! She grumbled to herself. Just then, she bumped into someone hurting her elbow. "Dekh kar nahi chal sakte!", she snapped. She saw it was Abul. She face turned grave. "Kya baat hai Khaani itne tashn mein kaha Jaa Rahi ho?",Abul asked giving her a once over. Without replying, Khaani turned to leave but he caught her elbow. "Arre kaha chali?Main baat kar raha hu na?". "How dare you? Haath chhoro mera!", Khaani said with gritted teeth, struggling to let go of her arm. Abul answered,"Chhor dunga itni jaldi bhi kya hai. Tumhe pata hai main kitna miss kar raha hu tumhe...aakar mujse tumne theek se baat bhi nahi ki.". "Kya?", Khaani asked disgusted,"Tumne mere saath jo bhi kiya uske baad tumne soch bhi kaise liya ke main tumse baat karungi?". "Kyu nahi baat karogi? In fact ab toh tumhe aur bhi baat karni chahiye...aakhir tumhare bhai ke political career ka sawaal hai.". After much struggle, Khaani was finally able to pull her arm out of his grip. "Tum kehna kya chahte ho?",she demanded. "Itni surprised kyu ho?", Abul asked,"Ab tum political campaign mein hissa le rahi ho, party office bhi aati jaati ho. Ab tak to tumhe andaza ho gaya hoga ke party mein...ghar mein daadi ke baad kiski chalti hai? Mere aur mere abbu ki.(pointing at his chest) Toh Sarim ki party mein jagah kiske haath hai? Mere haath mein. Aur main jab chahu uske career ko khatm kar sakta hu.". Khaani shook her head and replied,"Woh pehle ki baat thi...ab ghar ka bada beta hone ke hawale se party ke kursi pe Sarim ka haq hai.". "Ugh!",Abul let out a frustrated grunt and said,"Bilkul iss hi wajah se maine Baba se kaha tha ke tum logo ko zyada sir pe na charhaye. Ab dekho kya galat fehmi palkar rakhi hai. Sarim Party Chief banega? (laughing) Are you serious? Kam se Kam sapne to woh dekho jo aukaad ko suit karte ho.". Khaani fumed,"Agar aisi hi baat thi toh usse Balochistan ka ticket kyu diya?". Abul replied,"Balochistan jeetne ke liye. That's it. Dekho tumhara Bhai floods mein gaya...ussne logo ki madad ki..raaton raat national hero ban gaya usko aur humari family ko publicity mili...ho gaya tha na yaar! Uske baad usse US apne ghar wapas chale jana chahiye tha. Kya zarurat thi waha se aakar party join karne ki?Humne to usse nahi kaha tha party join karne ke liye...ab jab humne usse party mein aane diya hai toh usse humara ehsaan maan na chahiye. Na ki apni aukaad bhulkar party mein meri jagah chheen ne ka khwaab dekhna chahiye...waise tumhara Bhai samajdar lagta hai. I don't think woh aisa sochta hai...(sighing) magar tumhe apni soch ko badalni paregi otherwise Sarim ke liye party join karna bhari par sakta hai.". Saying this,Abul walked away. Leaving behind a flabbergasted Khaani in his wake.

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Two days later

Khaani was getting ready for bed when her phone buzzed. Bloody Hadi. Her caller ID read. She answered, "Hello". Hadi asked,"Kaam hua?". Khaani sighed and replied,"Maine Sarim se baat kar li woh maan gaya.".

"What?!",Hadi exclaimed,"Tum sach keh rahi ho?". "Ha", Khaani answered in a small voice,"Kaafi upset tha woh...uske Balochistan ko lekar bohot plans the..magar last mein woh meri baat maan gaya.". "Wait a minute?Main tumhare baat ka kaisa yaqeen karlu? Kya proof hai tumhare paas?", Hadi asked suspiciously. Khaani answered,"Tum news check Karo. Altaf Khan, humare Peshawar ka candidate Islamabad aaya huwa hai. Dad ne decide Kiya hai ke Sarim ke political career ki shuruwat Peshawar se honi chahiye taaki isse humara Pathan votebank strong rahe.". "Hmm", Hadi said thoughtfully,"Good decision.". "Tumne jo kaha maine bilkul waisa kiya", she appealed meekly,"Ab tum please mujhe woh video footage wapas kardo.". Hadi smiled, relishing the helplessness in her voice. "Kar dunga...Sarim ke official announcement ke baad. Woh apna nomination se withdrawal kab announce kar raha hai?". "Iss week ke end mein", she replied. "Very well",Hadi decided,"Tumhe bhi apna footage uss hi din mil jayega". "Theek hai", saying this Khaani abruptly hung up.

Half an hour later, Khaani's phone rang again. "Bloody Hadi", she muttered groggily as she answered the call. "Mujhe milna hai.",Hadi said. "Excuse me?", Khaani asked confused.

"Mujhe abhi tumse milna hai.",Hadi said. "Kyu?", Khaani asked. "Kya kyu?Tumne mujhe itni badi good news di hai, main election jeetne waala hu party karna to banta hai. Aur tumhari wajah se main jeetunga...to zaahir si baat hai ke tumhare saath hi to celebrate karunga.". "Mujhe kahi nahi jana.Bohot raat ho chuki hai...mujhe itni raat ko ghar se bahir jaane ki ijazat nahi.". Hadi chuckled at this and said,"Uss raat bhi toh ghar se baahir thi tab kaise ijaazat mil gayi?".

"Uss raat main apne cousin ke ghar ruki thi. Iss liye nightout pe gayi thi. Aaj ghar mein sab hai. Agar pakdi gayi to humari saari poll khul jaayega.". Khaani explained. Hadi paused for a minute before saying,"Kal apni cousin ke ghar night spend karne chali jaana. Main raat ko dus baje tumhe waha se pick karlunga.". He hung up.

Precap: Hadi's jaw dropped as he took in Khaani's appearance.

Smoke and Mirrors Part 1

Khaani frustratedly threw the file at the table. Ahmed had done as she asked. He got her all the information on Mir Hadi but there was nothing that could compel him to hand over the CCTV footage to her. All these files told her was that he was rich, spoilt and entitled. Your average Pakistani privileged man. Hardly something to blackmail someone over. Although there was one interesting detail: Hadi was something of a serial dater. He literally changed girlfriends the way people changed clothes. But his promiscuity will probably be treated in Pakistani media as a sign of his male hot-bloodedness, Khaani thought, rolling her eyes. He was currently dating a woman called Ayeza. Hadi was last seen with her at Ali's club two nights before he met Khaani.

Her phone buzzed. It was an unknown number. She answered. "Khaani...how are you?", It was Mir Hadi's voice. "How did you get my number?", Khaani demanded. "If I can track you at the shopping mall. How hard is it for me to track your number? Did you get my work done?". Khaani replied,"No...(sighing) I need more time to speak to Sarim. Even you know this isn't as simple as that. You know it isn't as simple as that.". Hadi replied sharply,"Its not so difficult for you. Talk to him, convince him...if he doesn't listen shoot him". Khaani ignored his jibe and replied,"I'll speak to Sarim. He's not at home now. Once he returns I'll talk to him...".

"Alright",Hadi said,"But don't take too long. What if I get bored and decide to come to your home with the video footage.". Khaani replied,"I have another six days.You gave me a week's time". "I did", Hadi replied casually,"But I am also very moody. You never know I may suddenly decide that there's no point wasting my time with you and it's better that I deal with your father and Sarim instead. So it's better for you that you get to work. Ok?". Without waiting for any response Hadi cut the call.

Mir Hadi stretched on the sun bed next to his swimming pool. Sitting next to him was Ali, who noticed how his friend's mood had become visibly upbeat after talking to Khaani. "Hadi, I can't understand why are you doing this?", Ali asked curiously. "What am I doing?", Hadi asked. Ali replied,"Why are you wasting your time blackmailing that girl?Just use that video footage...then Sarim himself will lose the elections.". Hadi chuckled and replied,"I can release that video. But where's the fun in that...(looking at his phone)?.". "What if she isn't convince her brother?", Ali asked. Hadi shrugged and replied,"Then I'll make the video viral. No matter what the scenario nobody can stop Mir Hadi from winning the elections".

Just then Hadi's phone rang. Looking at the caller ID, he groaned and cut the call. It was Ayeza. "God, why are these girls so desperate. If I'm not picking your call since last once weak that means we're over. I am done! Goodbye!". Ali chuckled and said,"You are talking about Ayeza right. She's called me a number of times. Kept asking me why aren't you calling her? When will you meet her again? Hadi why don't you clearly communicate with your girlfriends that you're breaking up with them. Later on they flood me with incessant calls.". "So what?", Hadi laughed and said,"You can handle them better than me... just like their brother(playfully punching Ali's arm). Bilkul unke bhai jaisa". "Ewwww!!", Ali said making a face before dissolving into laughter along with his friend.

Khaani stormed out of her room angrily recalling the conversation she had with Mir Hadi. How dare he blackmail me?Who the hell does he think he is?! She grumbled to herself. Just then, she bumped into someone hurting her elbow. "Can't you see?!", she snapped. She saw it was Abul. She face turned grave. "Where are you going in a huff, Khaani?".Abul asked giving her a once over. Without replying, Khaani turned to leave but he caught her elbow. "Where are you going?I am still talking". "How dare you? Leave my hand!", Khaani said with gritted teeth, struggling to let go of her arm. Abul answered,"Ok I'll leave. Do you know how much I missed you?And you didn't even talk to me properly even once since coming". "What? Talk to you?", Khaani asked disgusted,"After what you did?". "Why won't you talk to me?In fact you should talk to me even more now...after all your brother's political career depends on it.". After much struggle, Khaani was finally able to pull her arm out of his grip. "What do you mean?", she demanded. "Why are you so surprised?", Abul asked,"After Dadi if there is a voice that holds weight in the house and party it is my father's and mine. So Sarim's political future is in my hands. And I can make it or break it as I like.". Khaani shook her head and replied,"

That was before Sarim joined politics. Being the eldest son, it is Sarim who will be future party chief.". "Ugh!",Abul let out a frustrated grunt and said," This is the reason I had asked Baba not to give you people too much importance. I knew it would go to your deluded brains. Sarim Khan-the next Party Chief? Are you serious??.". Khaani fumed,"Then, why did you give him Balochistan's ticket?". Abul replied,"So that he can win us the seat. But that's it. Let me spell it out for you: we did Sarim a favour by bringing him into the party. He should be grateful to us. But if he thinks that he can just waltz in and snatch my rightful place then he's sorely mistaken.

But I don't think Sarim is the delusional one of you two. You are. So you need to remember your and your brother's place in the family and the party otherwise Sarim will have to pay for your delusion. I'll see you around.". Saying this,Abul walked away. Leaving behind a flabbergasted Khaani in his wake.

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Two days later

Khaani was getting ready for bed when her phone buzzed. Bloody Hadi. Her caller ID read. She answered, "Hello". Hadi asked,"Did you get it done?". Khaani sighed and replied,"I spoke to Sarim. He'll withdraw his nomination".

"What?!",Hadi exclaimed,"Are you sure?". "Yes", Khaani answered in a small voice,"He was disappointed. He had great plans for Balochistan but in the end he listened to me.".

"Wait a minute? How do I know if you are telling the truth?", Hadi asked suspiciously. Khaani answered,"You can check the news. Altaf Khan, our candidate from Peshawar is here. Dad feels that it's best Sarim starts his political career from Peshawar this will secure the Pathan votebank.". "Hmm", Hadi said thoughtfully,"Good decision.". "I did as you asked", she appealed meekly,"Now please return me that CCTV footage.". Hadi smiled, relishing the helplessness in her voice. "I will...but only after Sarim's official announcement . When is that by the way?". "By end of this week", she replied. "Very well",Hadi decided,"I'll return you the footage right after that". "Theek hai", saying this Khaani abruptly hung up.

Half an hour later, Khaani's phone rang again, interupting her sleep. "Bloody Hadi", she muttered groggily as she answered the call. "I want to meet you.",Hadi said. "Excuse me?", Khaani asked confused.

"I said I want to meet you.",Hadi said. "Why?", Khaani asked. "Why not?You gave me such great news. We should celebrate.". "I don't want to go anywhere. I am not aloud to step out this late at night.". Hadi chuckled at this and asked,"Then how did you step out the night we first met?".

"I was staying over at my cousin's thats why. If I leave now and get caught everyone will find out about our deal and it won't be good for me.". Khaani explained. Hadi paused for a minute before saying,"Go stay at your cousin's place tomorrow. I'll pick you up from there tomorrow night at 10".

Precap: Hadi's jaw dropped as he took in Khaani's appearance.

Smoke and Mirrors Part 2(Urd)

"Tum uske saath Jaa kyu Rahi ho, K?Usse manaa kyu nahi karti?", came Anjum's frustrated appeal. Her cousin who was getting ready in front of the mirror said,"I tried Anji. Maine aaj usse phirse baat karne ki koshish ki magar woh nahi maana...keh raha tha agar main nahi aayi to woh Milne aayega mujhse Khan Mansion mein. Ab aise mein mere paas aur koi option nahi tha uske baat maan ne ke alaava. But you don't worry, maine sare precautions le liye hai...tumne apne classfellow se baat ki, woh Ayeza ki cousin?". Anjum nodded and said,"Haa, usne kaha ke woh Ayeza se baat karegi. Par tum karna kya chahti ho?

Khaani replied,"I think Hadi ne usse breakup kar liya hai. Kayi dino se woh dono ek saath dikhe bhi nahi. Ek baar uski cousin yeh baat confirm karle to main usse approach karungi Hadi aur uske relationship ke bare mein baat karne ke liye.". Anjum appeared confused and replied,"Usse tumhe kya fayda hoga?". Khaani explained,"Maine Mir Hadi ke past ka pata lagaya hai. Yeh banda kabhi ek ladki ke saath ke zyada der nahi rehta. Almost har week girlfriend badalta hai. I am sure isne Ayeza ke saath bhi yahi Kiya hoga. Mera plan yeh hai ke main Ayeza se uske aur Hadi ke relationship ke baare mein baat karte huye record kardungi. Aur phir main Hadi ko usko release karne ki dhamki dungi agar usne mujhe woh CCTV waala footage nahi lautaya toh.".

"Matlab Sarim ke nomination se naam withdraw karni waali baat jhuti thi.", Anjum concluded. Khaani nodded as she carefully put her gun inside her purse. "Uss Mir Hadi ko kya laga tha?", Khaani said bitterly,"Woh mujhe blackmail karega...mujhe dhamki dega aur main darr jaungi? Hmmph! Bewakoof! Woh yeh samaj raha hai ke public scandal ke darr se Maine apne Bhai ke future ka sauda kar liya...yeh nahi jaanta ke Khaani khud ruswa ho jaayegi lekin Sarim pe kabhi koi aanch nahi aane degi". Just then her phone buzzed. It was a text from Hadi saying he was waiting outside the Bungalow. "I have to go.", Khaani said,"Khala aur Khalu?". "Apne room mein hai.", Anjum replied,"Don't worry. Maine mom se kaha hai ke tumhari tabiyat theek nahi hai tum so rahi ho. Tum please mujhe apna live location bhejo aur agar tumhe lage kuch theek nahi hai to mujhe foran call karna.Ok?". Khaani nodded.

____________________________________

Mir Hadi impatiently tapped on the steering wheel as he waited for Khaani. He checked his watch. Khaani was ten minutes late. He wasn't used to this. With his girlfriends it was always the other way round: he was the one to make them wait for hours before picking them up on dates. But then again, his mind reasoned, this wasn't a date. Technically. Truth be told, he himself didn't know why he asked her to go out with him in the first place. She did as he asked. Pretty soon, Sarim will announce his withdrawal from nominations. Then what was the need of all this? Deep down, Hadi knew he couldn't just trust her word. He needed to meet Khaani and talk to her to ascertain what she claimed was actually true. On the other hand, if indeed what she said was true he'd be sorely disappointed in her. Yes, he wanted to control her and make her do his bidding. But she gave up too quickly, spoiling all fun. He had anticipated- almost looked forward to- getting a tough fight from her.

Hadi's thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the window of the passenger seat. Expecting Khaani, he turned and was disappointed. It was some woman in a burqa. Her face completely covered except her eyes. He continued to ignore her until she knocked a next time. This time louder. He simply stared ahead. Mithal, along with his guards, were in the car behind him. Surely, they would tend to her. But before Mithal could intervene. The woman walked right in front of the car, where Hadi was looking and lifted her veil. It was Khaani. Hadi's jaw dropped as he took in Khaani's appearance. She was clad from head to toe in a plain black burqa. Now that she finally had Hadi's attention, Khaani walked towards the passenger seat. This time, she didn't have to knock. Hadi unlocked the door for her. Once she was settled, Hadi finally spoke up. "Yeh kya hai?", Was all he could say. Khaani gave him a death glare before finally saying,"Mir Hadi, manaa ke tum mujhe blackmail kar rahe ho magar iska yeh matlab nahi ke main tumhare ishare pe nachungi. Tumne mujhe aane ko kaha main aa gayi. Ab isse zyada mujse umeed nahi rakhna.". Hadi replied, trying to make her see reason,"Yeh kapde club ke liye thik nahi hai.". Khaani rolled her eyes and said,"Oh please! Club tumhare dost ka hai tumhe andar aane se kaun rokega? Secondly, tum shayad bhul rahe ho ke main kaun hu. Agar kisine hume ek saath dekh liya to tumhara to pata nahi lekin mujhe zindagi bhar ke liye mere Dad ghar mein qaid karke rakh denge. Oh! Ek aur cheez...zara yaha dekhna(raising her phone)". To Hadi's surprise, Khaani took a selfie of both of them and forwarded it to someone. Surprised, he said,"Abhi to tum keh rahi thi ke tum nahi chahti koi hume ek saath dekhe...toh phir?". Khaani said,"Yeh maine apni cousin ko forward Kiya hai. Agar main dedh baje tak wapas nahi aayi ya mera phone usse out of reach mila to woh tumhare khilaaf police mein complaint kardegi". Hadi was scowled at her words. He wasn't used to being treated like some cheapster who girls needed protection from. Raising his eyebrows, he challenged her,"Do you think agar mera tumhe lekar koi galat intention hai to yeh sab mujhe rokne ke liye kaafi hoga?"he whispered. Khaani replied evenly,"Shayad nahi...lekin tumhare aur tumhari family ka naam mitti mein zarur mil jayega agar media mein yeh baat aa gayi ke tumne apne rival ke behen ko kidnap kiya hai. Iss liye tumhare liye behtar yahi hoga ke tum thik dedh baje mujhe sahi salamat yaha chhod do.". Starting his car, Hadi said,

"Apne cousin ko bolo do baje ke baad police ko ittela karde. Mera adha ghanta to tumne yahi pe waste kar diya."

_____________________________________

As Hadi and Khaani entered Ali's club, they were greeted with curious stares. The club was a regular haunt of his friends and acquaintances. Everybody knew Mir Hadi and were aware of his recent break-up with his girlfriend, Ayeza. Him walking in with a burqa-clad women set their tongues wagging. Mir Hadi ignored all of them as he led Khaani to the first floor.

The first floor of the club was opulent yet cosy semi-private alcoves. Hadi led Khaani to his regular spot where Ali was waiting for him. Hadi introduced him to Khaani, who raised his eyebrows in surprise at her appearance but didn't say anything. "Toh finally I get to meet the famous Khaani.", Ali said. Khaani merely nodded and shook his hand and took her seat. Later, when she and Hadi were by themselves, he finally got to business. "Toh Khaani", he drawled, "Batao tumne apne bhai se aisa kya kaha ke woh apni jeeti huyi seat chhorkar ek naye constituency se elections ladne ko taiyyar ho gaya?". Khaani braced herself, she knew he had called her to interrogate her tonight. With a defeated sigh, she said,"Baba to pehle se hi chahte the ke Sarim apne political career ki shuruwat Peshawar se kare...Sarim hi chahta tha Balochistan se election ladna.".

"Toh woh ab kyu maana?", Hadi asked. Khaani replied,"Sarim mujhe bohot maanta hai. Maine usse samjhaya ke family ka bada beta aur party ke future head hone ke hasiyat se usko apne career ki shuruwat Peshawar se hi karni chahiye taaki humare Pathan voters ko yeh na lage ke Sarim ko unki fikar nahi.".

"Sirf yahi wajah hai?", Hadi asked again. Khaani answered quietly,"Agar Sarim Peshawar se ladega to usse Nayeema aunty ke Papa se funding milegi.". Hadi asked confused,"Nayeema aunty...matlab tumhare Dad ki second wife?". Khaani nodded. "Magar woh apne beti ke sautele bete ko funding kyu denge?",Hadi questioned. "Dad ne unse vaada kiya hai ke agar Sarim Jeet gaya to woh unhe Commerce Chamber ka Chairman bana denge.", Khaani said. Hadi finally leaned back satisfied with her explanation. Khaani looked down at her hands secretly smiling to herself, he bought her lie. Now all she needed to do was to get to Ayeza and Mir Hadi won't know what hit him.

Precap: Khaani stood frozen to the ground as Hadi advanced towards her, his face dark with rage.

Smoke and Mirrors Part-2 (Eng)

"Why are you even going with him K? Just say no!", came Anjum's frustrated appeal. Her cousin who was getting ready in front of the mirror said,"I tried Anji. But then he threatened to come meet me at Khan Mansion. I had no option but to give in. But you don't worry, I am taking precaution. By the way did you talk to your classfellow? Ayeza's?". Anjum nodded and said,"She said that she'll talk to Ayeza and let me know. But what is your plan?"

Khaani replied,"I think Hadi broke up with her. They haven't been seen together for days. I just need her cousin to confirm this. After that I'll approach Ayeza and convince her to talk about Hadi and her relationship." Anjum appeared confused and replied,"How will that help?". Khaani explained,"I did some digging on Mir Hadi. He is a serial dater. Never stays with one girl more than a week. I am sure he's done the same with Ayeza. I just need a recording of Ayeza talking about her relationship with Hadi. After that I'll ask Hadi to return the CCTV footage in exchange for Ayeza's video."

.

"So you lied to him about Sarim withdrawing his nominations?", Anjum concluded. Khaani nodded as she carefully put her gun inside her purse. "Mir Hadi is a fool if he thinks the fear of scandal will make me betray my own brother. He doesn't know that I'd rather face scandal and humiliation than destroy Sarim's career.". Just then her phone buzzed. It was a text from Hadi saying he was waiting outside the Bungalow. "I have to go.", Khaani said,"Khala and Khalu?". "They're in their room.", Anjum replied,"Don't worry. I told mum you are I'll and have gone to bed. Send me your live location and call me if anything goes wrong. Ok?". Khaani nodded.

____________________________________

Mir Hadi impatiently tapped on the steering wheel as he waited for Khaani. He checked his watch. Khaani was ten minutes late. He wasn't used to this. With his girlfriends it was always the other way round: he was the one to make them wait for hours before picking them up on dates. But then again, his mind reasoned, this wasn't a date. Technically. Truth be told, he himself didn't know why he asked her to go out with him in the first place. She did as he asked. Pretty soon, Sarim will announce his withdrawal from nominations. Then what was the need of all this? Deep down, Hadi knew he couldn't just trust her word. He needed to meet Khaani and talk to her to ascertain what she claimed was actually true. On the other hand, if indeed what she said was true he'd be sorely disappointed in her. Yes, he wanted to control her and make her do his bidding. But she gave up too quickly, spoiling all fun. He had anticipated- almost looked forward to- getting a tough fight from her.

Hadi's thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the window of the passenger seat. Expecting Khaani, he turned and was disappointed. It was some woman in a burqa. Her face completely covered except her eyes. He continued to ignore her until she knocked a next time. This time louder. He simply stared ahead. Mithal, along with his guards, were in the car behind him. Surely, they would tend to her. But before Mithal could intervene. The woman walked right in front of the car, where Hadi was looking and lifted her veil. It was Khaani. Hadi's jaw dropped as he took in Khaani's appearance. She was clad from head to toe in a plain black burqa. Now that she finally had Hadi's attention, Khaani walked towards the passenger seat. This time, she didn't have to knock. Hadi unlocked the door for her. Once she was settled, Hadi finally spoke up. "What's this?", Was all he could say. Khaani gave him a death glare before finally saying,"Mir Hadi, you wanted me to come. I have come. Don't push it.". Hadi replied, trying to make her see reason,"Your clothes aren't suitable for clubbing.". Khaani rolled her eyes and said,"Oh please! It's your best friend's club who is going to stop you from entering. And have you forgotten who am I? If someone sees us together then my father will lock me in my room and throw away the keys. Oh! Look here(raising her phone)". To Hadi's surprise, Khaani took a selfie of both of them and forwarded it to someone. Surprised, he said,"I thought you didn't want people to see us together.". Khaani said," I am forwarding this to my cousin. If I am not back by 1:30 am, she's going to go with this to the police.". Hadi was scowled at her words. He wasn't used to being treated like some cheapster who girls needed protection from. Raising his eyebrows, he challenged her,"Do you think if I had any ill intentions towards you this would be enough to stop me?""he whispered. Khaani replied evenly,"Maybe not... but your family name will be dragged through the mud if media gets to know that you have kidnapped your rival's sister. It's best you drop me here by 1:30 am. Safe and sound.". Starting his car, Hadi said,"Your cousin can go to the police after 2 a.m. as you have already wasted my half an hour."

_____________________________________

As Hadi and Khaani entered Ali's club, they were greeted with curious stares. The club was a regular haunt of his friends and acquaintances. Everybody knew Mir Hadi and were aware of his recent break-up with his girlfriend, Ayeza. Him walking in with a burqa-clad women set their tongues wagging. Mir Hadi ignored all of them as he led Khaani to the first floor.

The first floor of the club was opulent yet cosy semi-private alcoves. Hadi led Khaani to his regular spot where Ali was waiting for him. Hadi introduced him to Khaani, who raised his eyebrows in surprise at her appearance but didn't say anything. "So finally I get to meet the famous Khaani.", Ali said. Khaani merely nodded and shook his hand and took her seat. Later, when she and Hadi were by themselves, he finally got to business. "So Khaani", he drawled, "

"How did you convince Sarim to back out from what you said was a winning election?". Khaani braced herself, she knew he had called her to interrogate her tonight. With a defeated sigh, she said,"

Baba had anyway wanted Sarim to start his political career from Peshawar but Sarim wanted to contest from Balochistan.".

"So why did he change his mind?", Hadi asked. Khaani replied,"Sarim trusts me. I convinced him that being the eldest son and future party head it was befitting that he fight from Peshawar this would also attract our Pathan voter.".

"Just this reason?", Hadi asked again. Khaani answered quietly,"If Sarim contests from Peshawar, then he'll get funding from Nayeema aunty's father.". Hadi asked confused,"Nayeema aunty...your Dad's second wife?". Khaani nodded. "Why would he fund his own daughter's step son?",Hadi questioned. "Dad promised to make him the Chairman of Commerce Chamber". Khaani said. Hadi finally leaned back satisfied with her explanation. Khaani looked down at her hands secretly smiling to herself, he bought her lie. Now all she needed to do was to get to Ayeza and Mir Hadi won't know what hit him.

Precap: Khaani stood frozen to the ground as Hadi advanced towards her, his face dark with rage.

Chapter 9: An unlikely ally(Urd)

Khaani entered the party behind Anjum, her eyes scanning the room for Ayeza. It turns out luck was on Khaani's side. Just the night after her nightout with Hadi, Anjum was invited to a party being organised by Shiza, Anjum's classfellow and Ayeza's cousin. The impromptu party was being held at Shiza's apartment for Ayeza. The ocassion itself was something Khaani was sure Ayeza wouldn't be happy about: a party celebrating Ayeza's newly single status. While Khaani personally felt that surviving a relationship with a man like Mir Hadi was surely something to celebrate, she just couldn't imagine his ex-partner announcing her newly-single status with a party.

Pretty soon, she came face to face with her host. "Finally", Shiza exclaimed hugging Anjum,"Kitni deir kardi tumne and that's Khaani right, your cousin?". "Hi", Khaani said pleasantly, extending her hand. "Meet my cousin, Ayeza", Shiza said looking at the beautiful girl standing moodily next to her. "Hello, Ayeza", Khaani greeted her, extending her hand. The girl didn't take her hand. Rather, she stared at her weirdly. "I am sorry", Ayeza replied,"But aapko maine pehle kahi dekha hai...I can't remember kaha... shayad TV par. Are you an actress?". Before Khaani could give an answer, Shiza said,"She is Sarim Khan's sister Ayeza, woh jo uss Mir Hadi ko elections mein harane waala hai!". Ayeza's confused expression changed into one of alarm. "I hope that's not going to be problem", Khaani said quickly, trying to salvage the situation,"It's a social event after all. Aur maine tumhare break-up ke baare mein bhi suna...Shiza told Anji you wouldn't mind..." Ayeza shook her head and said,"Of course I don't mind. I'm sorry I was just taken aback. You're welcome to stay Sanam.". Khaani smiled.

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After drinking and dancing, it was time for games. "Ok girls!", Shiza announced,"The game is hum mein se koi apne ex ki annoying habits ko list karega. Aur jo jo relate kar sakta hai woh ek ek shot piyega.". One by one the girls got up from their place and listed the annoying habits of their ex. The list ranged from smelly socks to habitual cheater. Finally, it was Khaani's turn.

In her entire life, Khaani had been in two serious relationships; at eighteen years old with a fellow Pakistani classmate. She had called things off when he(without even asking her) sent a marriage proposal to her home. Her second relationship was with Adam, a British photographer, when she was twenty. They dated for about six months until he got a job with Vogue France and had to move to Paris and both agreed that long distance relationship was something they did not believe in. They were still very good friends though. Before coming to Pakistan, she went on dates a number of times but it was very casual. Nothing to complain about. She knew she had to say something. Her eyes fell on Ayeza, like everyone else, was waiting for her to start; an idea came to her. Finally Khaani spoke up,"My ex-boyfriend was a typical bad boy. Drinking, partying and womanising. Girlfriends toh aise badalta tha(chuckling) jaise log kapde badalte hai. Main yeh sab kuch jaanti thi... I don't know why...I thought mere saath he would be different. I thought he really loved me and we had something special. Hum log kaafi time tak saath the. Phir ek din achanak he stopped taking my calls. Mujhe uske building mein aane se ban kardia. Uske friends-jo kabhi mere friends hua karte the- acted like they didn't know me. Aur phir mujhe pata chala ke woh pehle engaged tha. He was two-timing his fiance with me. I never felt so used in my entire-". There was the sound of a glass breaking. It was Ayeza. She flung her glass on the floor and stormed inside her room. "Kya hua?", Khaani wondered aloud, feigning a shocked expression. Shiza replied,"Please don't mind...tumhare baaton ne usse uske ex ki yaad dila di. That Hadi was a complete @$$ to her! Bilkul tumhare ex jaisa. You know he didn't even have the guts to break-up with her in person. Uske dost ke phone karke yeh kaha ke Ayeza usse harass karna chhod de!Can you believe it?". Khaani scowled and said,"How disgusting...Shiza, if you don't mind kya main jaakar Ayeza se baat kar sakti hu? I feel so guilty. Yeh party tumne usse cheer up karne ke liye rakha tha aur maine apne baaton se uska mood kharab kar diya. I can very well understand what she is going through.". Shiza nodded and led her to her bedroom.

As Khaani entered the bedroom, she saw Ayeza looking at her phone and weeping. Khaani shifted uncomfortably: she wished she didn't have to do this but she had no option. "I am sorry", Khaani said,"Mujhe nahi pata tha ke tumhe meri story se itni takleef hogi,". She meant it. She didn't expect her fake break-up story to have such an impact on her. "I always knew Hadi was a womaniser", Ayeza said,"But mujhe laga tha that I can change him. Mera pyaar usse badal dega.". Khaani sighed and said,"Insaan apne fitrat ka Ghulam hota hai Ayeza. Hum chahe jitni bhi koshish kare usse change nahi kar sakte.". "Do you know maine uske liye kya kuch nahi kiya?", Ayeza said indignantly,"Woh jah bulata tha, jab bhi bulata tha main aa jaati thi, mujhe ghanto intezar Karata tha, I never complained! My friends didn't like him so I ditched them!". "Yehi to tumhari galti hai", Khaani replied annoyed,"Aise ladko ko kabhi sar nahi charhate. Once you let them walk all over you, toh woh tumhe for granted le lete hai. Inn sab mein Dil kiska tuta? Tumhara! Self-respect kiska hurt hua? Tumhara! Woh to kahi aish kar raha hoga apni agli girlfriend saath.". Ayeza replied wiping her tears,"You're not far from the truth you know. Maine suna hai ke kal raat ko woh apne friend ke club nazar aaya kisi burqewaali ke saath. Must be some Lollywood bimbo!Stupid b***h!". Khaani bit her lips trying to restrain herself.

She finally said,"Tum uss bechari pe kyu gussa kar rahi ho, woh bhi tumhari tarah do-chaar din ki mehmaan hai Hadi ki life mein. Galti toh saari uss Hadi ki hai jo tumhari feelings ke saath khel raha tha aur jab uska Mann bhar gaya toh usne tumhe tissue paper ki tarah phenk diya!". Ayeza glowered at her words. "I know meri baatein tumhe karwi lag rahi hai magar sach toh yahi hai: Mir Hadi ne tumhe aur tumhare emotions ka galat faida uthaya hai jiski sazaa aaj tum bhugat rahi ho. Tumne uske liye kya kuch nahi kiya aur badle mein usne tumhe use kiya aur phir ditch kar diya thik jaise usne tumse pehle apne baaki girlfriends ke saath kiya. Ayeza, I am sorry lekin tum uske liye bas ek aur conquest thi jisko usse jeetna tha. To tumhe kyu laga woh tumhare liye badal jayega, I am sure abhi tak woh tumhara naam bhi bhul gaya hoga!"

"Aisi baat nahi hai...tum usse nahi jaanti", Ayeza made an attempt to defend herself but Khaani didn't give her a chance. "You know what?!", She said agitatedly,"Tum desi ladkiyo ki yahi problem hai ladka chahe tumhe doormat ki tarah treat kare tumhe usse wafadari nibhani hoti hai. Tumhare usse defend karne se woh wapas nahi lautega Ayeza balki tumhari khamoshi usse aur himmat degi". Ayeza responded,"Toh phir main kya karu?". Khaani replied,"Uski sachchayi sabke saamne laao. Puri duniya ko batao ke usne tumhare saath kya kiya hai.". Ayeza appeared shocked at Khaani's words. Finally, she said,"Look, I know Hadi tumhare bhai ka rival hai lekin yeh humara personal matter hai, iss mein tum politics ko beech mein nahi laao to hi achcha hai.". Khaani tried another tactic,"Your dignity is admirable Ayeza, par afsos Mir Hadi iske kaabil nahi hai. Uss mein toh itni bhi decency nahi hai ke tumhare saath face-to-face break-up kare.". Defiantly, Ayeza said,"Break-up nahi hua hai humara ok? We're just going through a rough phase. That's it. I am sure kuch dino mein sab theek ho jayega.". Khaani shook her head; she was beginning to lose sympathy for this girl. She took the word delusional to another level. "Kuch dino mein..matlab kitne dino mein? Aisa na ho ke tum uski raah takti jaao aur woh uss burqewaali se nikaah kar baithe.". Ayeza retorted,"You are wrong, Hadi ko inn sab cheezon mein interest nahi hai.". Khaani rolled her eyes and replied,"Oh please, shaadi woh zarur karega magar uss ladki se jisse uske career ko fayda mile iss liye woh kissi ladki se kabhi seriously commit nahi karta.". Ayeza pondered on Khaani's words. She was coming around, Khaani could sense it. She finally spoke,"Tumhara boyfriend jisne tumhe betray Kiya tumne uske saath kya kiya?". Khaani cleared her throat and said,"Maine usse social media me expose kar diya. Mujhe dekh kar uski baaki ex-girlfriends ne bhi apni stories share ki. Uske baad uski engagement toot gayi aur scandal ke wajah se usse Australia shift hona para.". Ayeza nodded, wiping her tears. After a minute, she said,"I really loved Hadi. Mujhe laga tha ke kabhi na kabhi he'll realise my feelings and reciprocate. But I was wrong usse bas istemaal karna aata hai...I want him to pay for what he did to me.". Although, Khaani maintained a solemn expression, she was ecstatic from within. She just needed to play her cards right and Mir Hadi will be a dead man. "Then tumhare paas abhi sabse achcha mauka hai. Abhi elections sar par hai, agar tum abhi usse expose karogi to woh haar jayega. Uske liye isse badi ruswai baat kya hogi ke woh apne career ka pehla election haar jayega. Par...tum usse expose karogi kaise?"

Ayeza replied,"Main social media pe usse expose kar sakti hu...jaise tumne kiya tha.". Khaani shook her head,"Meri baat aur hai mera ex koi famous politician ka beta nahi hai. Aur tumhara asli target Balochistan ke voters hai jinka social media se zyada vasta nahi hai aur news channels tum Jaa nahi sakti kyuki you never know shayad woh Hadi ko tumhare baare mein pehle se inform karde.". "Toh phir main yeh kaise karungi?". Ayeza asked confused. Khaani pretended to think for a moment before saying,"I have an idea! Meri jaan pehchaan ka ek reporter hai. We can trust him. Tum usko apna interview do - of course tumhari identity protected rahegi. Aur uske baad mera campaign manager uss video footage ko voters mein circulate kardega. Simple!". After thinking for a few minutes, Ayeza replied,"Thik hai Main taiyyar hu.". "Thik hai", Khaani said decisively,"Toh main kal hi tumhara interview arrange karti hu."

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The next day

Mir Hadi checked his phone: today was the last day of his ultimatum to Khaani and till now she hasn't delivered. He dialled her number. Khaani picked up and without any preamble said,"Aaj shaam ko Sarim ne press conference rakha hai uss mein woh announcement kar dega.". Hadi smirked and said,"Kamaal hai, mere bina kahe tum mere dil ki baat samaj gayi...lagta hai kafi strong connection ban gaya hai humara.". Khaani countered,"Yeh connection nahi relief hai ke finally Mera tumse peechha chhutne waala hai.". Hadi shrugged,"Zyada khush mat ho elections abhi baaki hai, kya pata mujhe phirse tumhari zarurat padh jaaye...aur woh footage-". Khaani cut him off,"Tum woh footage mujhe aaj raat ko lautaoge Mir Hadi aur iske baad uss raat ka koi zikr nahi hoga humare beech...do you get that? Kyuki agar aisa hua to iss political rivalry ko mujhe personal rivalry mein badalne mein der nahi lagegi. And believe me you don't want me as an enemy.". Hadi smiled in spite of himself: it was this fierce side of Khaani he enjoyed so much."Aaj raat ko kaha mil rahe hai aur kitne baje?". Khaani answered,"Aaj raat ko chhe baje Ali ke club.". Without waiting for an answer, Khaani cut the call. She turned around to find Sarim standing at the door. Kahi issne meri saari baat to nahi sunli? She thought panicking. "Tum kab aaye?", Khaani asked alarmed. Entering her room, he said,"Bas abhi kisse baat kar rahi thi?". "Anjum", Khaani lied. Sarim said,"Tum ne usse kaha na ke tum aaj nahi aa paogi. Aath baje meri press conference hai. Aaj humare election manifesto ki release hai.". Khaani nodded and replied,"Haan mujhe pata hai, main abhi kuch der baad nilkungi ...ek important kaam hai, shaam tak wapas aa jaungi.". "Please time par aana", Sarim pleaded,"Tum jaanti ho na yeh press conference mere liye kitna important hai. Main aaj apna Girls Free Education Plan announce karne waala hu. I'll need all your support.". "Of course, I'll be there for you", Khaani replied,"Tum Balochistan ke ladkiyo ke hawale itna nek kadam uthane ja rahe ho, mujhe toh tumhara saath dena hi hai. Waise uss dragon lady ko tumhara yeh idea kaisa laga?". Sarim shrugged,"I don't know", he said,"Unhone mujse zyada kuch nahi puchha bas mera presentation suna aur approve kar diya.". "I guess she liked it, bas tumhari tareef karke apna form kharab nahi karna chahti", Khani replied conspiratorially, as Sarim chuckled at her joke.

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Khaani checked her watch, it was 4:35 pm. Ayeza was 35 minutes late. They had planned to meet at the reporter's house where she was supposed to be interviewed. For the fifth time, Khaani dialled her number. There was no response. "I am so sorry Adeel", Khaani apologised to the reporter - a contact of Ahmed's,"But I don't think she's going to show up.". Saying this, she left. While driving, she dialled Anjum's number. "Anji!"Kinza se tumhari baat huyi?", Khaani asked angrily,"What is Ayeza playing at?! Agar woh interview nahi karna chahti to na kare but at least call to pick kare- What the!(Khaani hit the brakes and started honking loudly)". Anjum asked,"Kya hua K?". "Ek car aakar achanak mere saamne khadi ho gayi hai blocking my way. Wakayi iss mulk mein civic sense naam ki to cheez hi nahi hai. Main innse baat karke aati hu". Khaani stepped out of her car, closing the door with a thud. She reached the car. It's windows were covered and closed. She knocked on the window. On getting no response she knocked again. This time the car's door opened. It was Mithal, Mir Hadi's trusted aide. The look on his face was enough for Khaani to understand the reason behind Ayeza's no-show: Mir Hadi knew everything. Before she could say anything, someone threw a piece of cloth over her face and pushed her inside the car.

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